HIWI Jobs in Germany: A Complete Overview

In Germany, students often work part-time while studying. HiWi jobs in research centres, libraries, or universities, as well as waiter or babysitting roles, are common options. International students can also work. HiWi jobs offer valuable work experience and practical skills while allowing students to continue their studies. Tasks include data analysis, research, lab support, programming, tutoring, and administration. In this article, you will learn about the HIWI Jobs in Germany.

 The word “HIWI” refers to two distinct employment categories:

• Academic assistants: This phrase is usually used to denote students who have finished an undergraduate programme, such as a Bachelor’s degree, as required by most federal states’ university rules.
• Student assistants: Students who are enrolled in degree programmes but have not yet completed their degrees are referred to as student assistants.

To find HIWI jobs in Germany, you can follow these steps:

1. University Websites: Check relevant German university and research institution websites for Hiwi job listings.
2. Professors and Research Groups to Contact: Contact professors or research groups directly regarding Hiwi opportunities by expressing interest in their projects or through personal connections.
3. Online employment Portals: Search popular German online job portals like Indeed, StepStone, Academic Positions, or Jobs in Research using keywords such as “HiWi,” “studentische Hilfskraft,” or “research assistant” to find relevant job ads.
4. University Notice Boards and Notice Boards: Check your university’s notice boards and notice boards. In these geographical places, professors or departments frequently post job openings for Hiwi roles.
5. Career Services: Utilize your university’s career services or job placement offices for information and guidance on available HiWi positions that align with your academic goals.

Universities that provide HIWI jobs in Germany

1. Technical University of Munich
2. Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
3. Heidelberg University
4. Freie Universität Berlin
5. Humboldt University of Berlin
6. University of Bonn
7. University of Cologne
8. University of Hamburg
9. RWTH Aachen University
10. University of Stuttgart

Some important information about Hiwi jobs in Germany

• Part-time Hiwi jobs offer flexibility for students to balance work and studies (10-20 weekly hours).
• Available to enrolled students, recent graduates, or qualified individuals.
• Hiwi roles cover various academic fields (natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, etc.).
• Duties depend on the department, research project, or professor.
• Responsibilities include data collection, analysis, literature reviews, lab work, programming, administrative support, tutoring, or grading.
• Hiwi positions have fixed-term contracts aligned with academic semesters or specific research projects.
• Contract renewals are based on performance and funding availability.
• Paid positions following the collective bargaining agreement for German student assistants.
• Wage amount varies based on institution, location, and requirements.

Salary of HIWI jobs in Germany

• When looking for Hiwi jobs, it’s vital to be aware of the following legislation and tax considerations:
• Students are subject to annual employment limits of 120 full days or 240 half days.
• Working more than 20 hours per week over these limits can have serious implications.
• Students have a monthly income cap of €450. Income over this amount is subject to ordinary German taxes,
• whilst income under €450 is tax-free.
• Working too many hours may result in the loss of healthcare subsidies.
• Students who are insured via TK can earn up to €435 per month without compromising their insurance coverage.
• Long-term nursing care and social security contributions are also applicable, resulting in increased annual costs.
• Accepting a position as a student assistant at your university or institution does not count against the 120-day restriction.
• Subsidised health insurance coverage continues until the student’s registration expires.
• When looking for work in Germany, it’s critical to understand the various job categories and how they affect insurance coverage.

Conclusion